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Title: Sand consolidation methods using adsorbable catalysts

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5251823

Methods are provided for selectively consolidating sand grains within a subterranean formation. First an acidic zirconium salt catalyst, such as ZrOCl/sub 2/, Zr(SO/sub 4/)/sub 2/, or ZrCl/sub 4/, is injected into the subterranean formation, wherein the acidic salt catalyst is adsorbed to the surface of the sand grains. Next a polymerizable resin composition such as furfuryl alcohol oligomer is introduced into the well formation. Polymerization of the resin occurs upon exposure to the elevated well temperatures and contact with the acid salt catalyst adsorbed to the sand grains. The polymerized resin serves to consolidate the surfaces of the sand grains while retaining permeability through the pore spaces. An ester of a weak organic acid is included with the resin compositions to control the extent of a polymerization by consuming the water by-product formed during the polymerization reaction.

Assignee:
Getty Oil Company
Patent Number(s):
US 4512407
OSTI ID:
5251823
Resource Relation:
Patent File Date: Filed date 15 Dec 1983; Other Information: PAT-APPL-561970
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English